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Post by insectartist on Sept 26, 2019 14:06:35 GMT
Hi,
I am an artist painting insects, especially moths and butterflies, and earlier this year I inherited two boxes of an historical moth collection. They were in the boxes they have been kept in for years and years and were in immaculate condition. I have not done anything with them other than put the boxes in my study. Today, I have opened them (because I'm going to use some of them as specimens to paint) and a few of them have furry stuff on them (mould?). I have attached a photo. I have removed the ones that have that and put them in separate boxes, but as you can imagine, I am very concerned and want to solve this as soon as possible. This collection is beautiful and I can't bear the idea that it's been immaculate for years and then it's in my possession for a few months and it gets ruined! I really want to stop this happening to the other moths in the collection and do whatever I can to preserve this collection. I would be really grateful for any advice you can give. Thanks in advance.
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Post by Paul K on Sept 26, 2019 16:01:02 GMT
Hi
The insect collection must be kept in dry room, the humidity shouldn’t be higher than 60-65% but lower is better if possible. Don’t keep boxes near the floor, try to store them higher on shelf. You must insert also Naphthaline balls or paradichlorobenzene or no pest strip ( dichlorvos ) to prevent Dermestids consuming dry insects. Last think you must keep collection in the dark room/place, light will fade away colours in no time.
Good luck
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